Underrated Travel Destinations in Poland

Wawel Castle in Krakow, Poland.
Wawel Castle in Krakow, Poland.

Poland is a country rich in history and landmarks. However, compared to many of its European neighbors, the country remains relatively unknown to many tourists. The following are a list of amazing tourist attractions in Poland that are often overlooked.

Wawel Castle

The Wawel Castle was built in 14th century by Casimir III the Great in a Gothic style. The castle houses the legendary Szczerbiec coronation sword, which is magnificently decorated with symbols and floral patterns and jagged at the tip such that it holds a shield. The castle was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.

Kraków Main Square

The town square in Kraków was built in the 13th century and is the largest historical town square in Europe, and the biggest tourist attraction in Poland. The square stands in the middle of historical houses, buildings, palaces and churches. The entire old town, with the town square as its centre, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.

Warsaw's Old Town Market Place

Sometimes referred to as the center of Polish culture, Warsaw's Old Town Market Place was also built in the 13th century. Although it was destroyed during World War II, it was immediately rebuilt. The center of the market exhibits a bronze sculpture of the Warsaw Mermaid, a representation of the capital of Poland.

Bialowieza Forest

This large forest is a remnant of prehistoric forests. It lies right on the border with Belarus. The Bialowieza Forest hosts 800 wisent, a rare type of bison, which is Europe's heaviest land animal.

Events and Festivals

Krakow and various old towns host a variety of events, festivities concerts and exhibitions. These events are specially organized for tourists and locals who visit Krakow. Some of these events happen only once, while others occur regularly or annually.

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